Mega-Rib: Strength, Style, and Proven Performance
Among McElroy Metal's most trusted products, the Mega-Rib panel delivers superior spanning capabilities, structural integrity, and a bold aesthetic that complements a wide range of designs.
Built for Strength and Versatility
The Mega-Rib panel features a 7.2-inch rib spacing and a 1½-inch rib height, creating a profile that combines visual appeal with unmatched durability. Designed for use on both walls and roofs, Mega-Rib panels can be installed vertically or horizontally, offering tremendous design flexibility.
Its deep ribs provide excellent rigidity and structural performance, making it particularly well-suited for buildings requiring longer spans and fewer supports. Whether it's a large warehouse, a manufacturing facility, or a modern agricultural building, Mega-Rib delivers lasting performance and a clean, professional appearance.
The Best Ways to Use Mega-Rib
Mega-Rib is engineered for performance and visual appeal across a variety of building types. On roofs, it performs on slopes as low as 1:12 with tape sealant at side laps to ensure watertight protection. On walls, its distinctive rib pattern adds depth and shadow lines that enhance architectural facades.
Typical uses include:
- Commercial and industrial facilities that require long spans and durable performance
- Educational and civic buildings are looking for modern architectural aesthetics.
- Agricultural and storage structures where corrosion resistance and longevity matter
- Residential and mixed-use projects featuring metal wall cladding
Mega-Rib combines functional strength with visual impact, making it one of McElroy Metal's most adaptable exposed fastener panels for builders, architects, and owners who want lasting performance and style.
Installation and Maintenance
Mega-Rib is engineered for quick installation and low maintenance. Its wide panel coverage and strong rib geometry allow for long spans, reducing the need for extra supports and fasteners.
McElroy Metal provides complete installation and maintenance manuals to ensure proper handling and long-term performance.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Panel Width | 36" cover width |
| Rib Height | 1½ inch |
| Minimum Roof Slope | 1:12 (tape sealant required for all slopes) |
| Installation | Vertical or horizontal |
| Available Gauges | 24 GA Galvalume® steel is standard; 22 and 26 GA Galvalume® steel is optional. |
| Coating Options | Kynar 500® (PVDF) |
| Fire Rating | Class A |
| Impact Resistance | UL2218, Class 4 |
| Wind Uplift | UL580, Class 90 |
| Approvals and Ratings | ICC-ES ESR-5896, Florida Product Approvals 1832.8 & 1747.6, Miami-Dade NOA |
| Manufacturing Locations | Clinton, IL; Peachtree City, GA; Adelanto, CA; Sunnyvale, TX |
These specifications confirm Mega-Rib's ability to perform under challenging conditions while meeting or exceeding industry standards.
Note: 36" (Adelanto, CA), all other locations, standard 26 GA coverage is 28.8".


Why Choose Mega-Rib
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High Strength and Span Capability – Engineered for demanding applications.
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Architectural Appeal – Adds bold lines and depth for modern designs.
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Proven Certifications – UL, ASTM, and ICC testing ensure compliance with industry standards.
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Long-Lasting Finishes – Kynar 500® (PVDF) coatings retain color and gloss for decades.
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Comprehensive Support – Backed by McElroy Metal's engineering and customer service team.
Coatings and Warranties
McElroy Metal applies Kynar 500® (PVDF) finishes to Mega-Rib panels, offering outstanding resistance to chalking and fading. Combined with the Galvalume® substrate, these panels deliver long-term corrosion protection, ensuring beauty and performance that lasts for decades.
McElroy Metal also offers standard and project-specific warranties for both finish and substrate, reinforcing confidence in the product's durability and appearance.
Backed by the McElroy Metal Advantage
When you specify McElroy Metal, you're choosing a partner committed to performance, innovation, and service. With a nationwide network of Service Centers and manufacturing facilities, McElroy Metal offers exceptional product support, fast lead times, and technical guidance every step of the way.
Customer Testimonial
We have partnered with McElroy Metal for over 25 years for all our metal roofing needs. We specifically like utilizing the Mega-Rib panel because of its strength, availability, and color variety.
We recommend the professionals at McElroy to anyone in the market for metal roofing.
- Robert Ritter - RCP Shelters, Inc. - RCP Shelters, Inc. specializes in open-air park shelters.
Explore More Exposed Fastener Panels
If you're considering Mega-Rib for your next project, explore more of McElroy's exposed fastener panels, including:
Each panel offers unique benefits for various design and performance needs.
Experience the Mega-Rib Difference
From heavy-duty performance to striking visual appeal, Mega-Rib delivers strength, style, and proven reliability. Discover why architects, contractors, and building owners nationwide continue to trust McElroy Metal for their roofing and siding needs.
Common Questions About Mega-Rib Panels
What is the typical lead time for Mega-Rib panels?
Lead times for Mega-Rib panels vary depending on project size, finish selection, and manufacturing location. Because McElroy Metal produces panels at multiple facilities across the U.S., most standard orders are produced promptly, while custom colors or special gauges may require additional time. For the most accurate lead time, contact your Customer Service Representative or nearest McElroy Metal Service Center.
How does Mega-Rib compare in cost to other exposed fastener panels?
While Mega-Rib may have a slightly higher initial material cost compared to lighter-gauge exposed fastener panels, its superior spanning capability often reduces overall project costs. The deep 1½-inch ribs allow for longer spans between supports, which means you'll need fewer purlins and structural supports.
Can Mega-Rib be installed over an existing roof?
While McElroy offers several retrofit and recover systems, such as the 238T metal-over-metal and 138T shingle-over-metal systems, these are engineered solutions specifically designed for re-roofing applications and use different panel profiles.
If your project involves an existing roof, McElroy Metal recommends working with our engineering team or a local Service Center to determine the appropriate retrofit framing system and compatible panel type. This ensures code compliance, long-term performance, and warranty eligibility.
What maintenance does Mega-Rib require after installation?
Mega-Rib panels are engineered for low maintenance throughout their service life. The Kynar 500® (PVDF) finish resists chalking and fading while the Galvalume® substrate provides long-term corrosion protection. Basic maintenance includes periodic inspections to ensure fasteners remain tight and removing debris from roof valleys or gutters that could trap moisture. Most installations require nothing more than occasional cleaning to maintain their appearance.
Will I see oil canning on my Mega-Rib panels?
Oil canning—the wavy appearance sometimes visible in flat metal surfaces—can occur naturally in any metal panel and is not considered a manufacturing defect. While it doesn't affect the structural integrity or weathertight performance of Mega-Rib, the deep ribs and rigid profile help minimize its visibility compared to flatter panel designs. Oil canning is more noticeable under certain lighting conditions and viewing angles. If you have concerns about oil canning, discuss panel orientation and finish selection with your contractor during the design phase.
What warranty coverage comes with Mega-Rib?
McElroy Metal offers finish and substrate warranties for Mega-Rib. Coverage varies by finish system (e.g., PVDF/Kynar 500®), substrate (e.g., Galvalume®), environmental exposure/project location, and whether a standard or project-specific warranty is issued. For the best fit, contact your local McElroy Metal representative to review options for your project and location.
About McElroy Metal
Since 1963, McElroy Metal has served the construction industry with quality products and excellent customer service. The employee-owned components manufacturer is headquartered in Bossier City, La., and has 14 manufacturing facilities across the United States. Quality, service and performance have been the cornerstone of McElroy Metal’s business philosophy and have contributed to the success of the company through the years. As a preferred service provider, these values will continue to be at the forefront of McElroy Metal’s model along with a strong focus on the customer.



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